sharita4!

[size=3][color=#000000][font=Calibri]Hello, my name is Shari and here’s my story. I had the Lapband surgery in 2008 (starting weight 239) and after losing only 18 lbs was very disappointed. I followed the plan, then decided after 4 years it was time to try something else. I really did not want to go through another surgery. But, since I had BCN at that time, I followed all of the necessary requirements (again) and decided to go with the Sleeve. I had my surgery August 31, 2012 and am down about 40 lbs and couldn’t be happier. I was not sure how the lapband and the sleeve were going to be different, but they are. I needed the part of the Sleeve surgery where you lose your appetite and I did. It is gone. I don’t get food “stuck” like I did with the band either. I did this for myself and my joints. I think I am still in shock that I have lost 40 lbs. I have struggled all my life just to lose 5 lbs and am thrilled with this weight loss so far. My goal is to be 170 lbs or a size 14. Currently, I am 184 lbs and a size 14, so I am still going for 170 lbs. My doctor is thrilled with these results and is happy for any weight under 200 lbs. I go to the gym twice a week and use the resistance machines and 30 minutes on the treadmill. We have a walking track at work, so I have been using this also 2-3 times per week. I have joined the Walking Spree through my work where you have to walk at least 5000 steps per day, but am happy to say I am between 6,000 to 10,000 steps per day. I wish I could have done the sleeve surgery 20 years ago, it would have changed my life. For the past 20 years there has been a smaller person living in a bigger persons body. You know how you feel a certain way about yourself and then you look in the mirror and wonder who is staring back at you. Inside, you don’t feel the way you look. I am hoping to keep up this healthy lifestyle and wish everyone out there that has struggled with their weight, much joy and happiness. I am looking forward to reading each of your stories and reading what works and what does not! Thank you for listening to my story.[/font][font=Wingdings][font=Wingdings]J[/font][/font][/color][/size]